Bladder campion

Silene vulgaris

leaf

Young shoots tasting of fresh peas, in omelets or with rice in Spain, or cooked in Italy (strigoli).

Origin

Europe and the Mediterranean

Where to find it

In meadows, on banks and roadsides; in Spain, “collejas” are sold in spring at markets in La Mancha and Andalusia, and in the Veneto “sciopetin” at those of Padua.

Season (United States)

March to May

Preparation

The young shoots are picked before flowering, washed, then eaten raw in salads or sautéed for a few minutes.

Molecules

Beta-carotene (vitamin A) · Lutein and zeaxanthin · Vegetable nitrates · Chlorophyll

Did you know?

Squeezed between two fingers, its swollen flowers pop like a balloon: hence its French nickname “claquet”.